What happens to men's skin after 35? Here's what dermatologists want you to know

Turning 35 doesn't immediately signal a rapid decline in appearance. However, this age marks a shift in body functions that become more challenging to overlook. Metabolic rates may slow, making weight gain more likely. Testosterone levels gradually decrease, impacting energy and libido. Collagen, the protein maintaining skin firmness, production tapers off from the mid-30s, while existing collagen degrades faster.

This explains the increased prevalence of dark circles, dullness, dryness, and fine lines, along with slower recovery from poor sleep or excessive sunlight exposure. Dermatologists advise that men often evade skin care attention in their twenties and early thirties because the skin at this stage is thicker, oilier, and more resilient.

As the skin enters the mid-to-late thirties, its natural repair processes slow, leading to increased visibility of pigmentation, wrinkles, enlarged pores, and sagging skin. Lifestyle habits from younger years often catch up during this period, with late nights, smoking, excessive drinking, and sun exposure without sunscreen accelerating collagen loss.

Consequently, the visible signs of ageing are the result of cumulative damage over the years. It's now that skincare truly becomes essential. Rather than complex, lengthy routines, the ideal skincare regimen should be simple and consistently followed. Men typically prefer straightforward approaches with visible results. Dermatologists recommend focusing on ingredients backed by scientific evidence rather than following fleeting skincare trends.

Three recommended ingredients for healthier-looking skin after 35 include: After 35, men should adjust their morning routine. Begin with a gentle cleanser to eliminate overnight oil production. For oily or acne-prone skin, a foaming cleanser is recommended. A product like Dr Jart.+ Cicapair™ Gentle Cleansing Foam, priced at S$40, aids in cleansing without disrupting the skin barrier through its cica complex, a sulfate-free, pH-friendly formula.

Following cleansing, applying a serum nourishes the skin with concentrated ingredients targeting concerns such as dullness, pigmentation, or fine lines. A Vitamin C serum can brighten the skin and diminish pigmentation, providing a non-irritating option with a water-light texture that absorbs quickly, promoting even tone and protection against free radical damage.

Applying sunscreen is crucial to prevent UV damage, one of the primary contributors to premature skin ageing. Dermatologists suggest using a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 for optimal protection. This sunscreen should be applied generously to the entire face and reapplied over areas with pigmentation. Dr Soo recommends Laneige Water Bank UV Barrier Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++, priced at S$42 (50ml), for its non-greasy, hydrating formula that supports a UV-damaged barrier.

At night, cleansing the face again removes sunscreen, accumulated dirt, and oil, followed by applying a serum to lock in the serum's benefits. For dry environments, a moisturiser is essential, particularly when sleeping in air-conditioned rooms. The Farmacy Honey Cloud Lightweight Barrier Repair Moisturizer, priced at S$76, provides hydration with ingredients such as white honey, PGA peptide, ectoin, and hyaluronic acid, while also soothing the skin with chamomile and calendula.

Post-workout, cleansing the skin to remove sweat and oil is crucial, as the skin's recovery slows with age. Leaving sweat and oil on the skin for extended periods can lead to irritation and breakouts. Mediheal Madecassoside Moisture Calming Derma Foam Cleanser, priced at S$16.90, is recommended for gentle cleansing, utilizing madecassoside and three types of hyaluronic acid to keep the routine gentle.

Sisley Sisleyum for Men Revitalizing Toning Lotion, priced at S$200, helps restore calm after exercise by using mimosa of Constantinople extract, which leaves the face looking more rested, and vitamin B3 to support the skin barrier. This serum-like milk provides SPF50+/PA++++ protection without stickiness, making it suitable for post-gym commutes or outdoor workouts.

Before a date night, exfoliation and hydration can help achieve a polished look without appearing overdone. In addition to regular grooming, incorporating an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) product, such as Clinique Moisture Surge Active Glow Serum, priced at S$86 (50ml), with 5% lactic acid, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C, can improve skin tone and control excess oil.

Another option is Sulwhasoo Lumiwise Brightening Essence Water, priced at S$100, which features ginseng PHA to gently refine dead cells, resulting in a more radiant complexion.